Tray Five - Manhattan Mood | Artists To Watch

Tray Five performs in front of a packed crowd, bringing the same confidence, energy, and raw authenticity that define his latest single, "Manhattan Mood." Blending hard-hitting production with street-inspired storytelling, the rising artist continues to establish himself as one to watch in today's hip-hop landscape.

Tray Five continues to carve out his lane with "Manhattan Mood," a standout record that captures the hunger, confidence, and ambition of an artist on the rise. Blending elements of drill, trap, and melodic rap, the track pairs hard-hitting production with sharp lyricism and memorable melodies that reflect both the highs and hardships of chasing success.

More than just another street anthem, "Manhattan Mood" explores the realities of loyalty, betrayal, and protecting what you've built once the spotlight arrives. With an authentic perspective and undeniable energy, Tray Five is proving he has both the vision and the drive to make a lasting impact. If you're looking for emerging artists making noise with substance and style, Tray Five is one to keep on your radar.

Dyfyant Advances to The Happiness of Pursuit Festival Following Standout THOP Fest Tour LA Performance

Dyfyant, a Richmond, California native and Los Angeles-based hip-hop artist, poses in front of a neon-lit backdrop. The genre-bending rapper tied for first place at the THOP Fest Tour Los Angeles competition, earning a performance slot at The Happiness of Pursuit Festival.

Some artists fit comfortably into a genre.

Dyfyant has never been interested in fitting in.

At the Los Angeles stop of the THOP Fest Tour, held at The Slipper Clutch in Downtown Los Angeles, Dyfyant delivered a performance that challenged expectations and reminded everyone why independent music thrives on originality. When the judges' final scores were tallied, they found themselves unable to choose between two standout performers. The result was a tie, earning both Dyfyant and Irie Givens a place on this year's Happiness of Pursuit Festival lineup.

For Dyfyant, the recognition was a reflection of years spent building an artistic identity that extends well beyond music.

Originally from Richmond, California, and now based in Los Angeles, Dyfyant has developed a sound that blurs the lines between hip-hop, psychedelic influences, and experimental production. His music refuses to follow trends, instead inviting listeners into immersive soundscapes filled with introspective lyrics, unexpected textures, and creative risk-taking.

That fearless approach defines everything he creates.

In 2024, Dyfyant released THE BROKEN GLASS THEORY, a project that further established his reputation as an artist unafraid to explore unconventional ideas and challenge listeners through both sound and storytelling. Away from the microphone, he channels the same creative energy into his independently dyed streetwear line, proving that self-expression isn't limited to music—it's a lifestyle.

That authenticity was impossible to ignore during the Los Angeles competition.

Rather than relying on familiar formulas, Dyfyant trusted his own vision. Every song, every transition, and every moment on stage reflected an artist who understands exactly who he is. The confidence to embrace originality resonated with both the audience and the judges, making his performance one of the night's defining moments.

The Happiness of Pursuit Festival celebrates artists who create without compromise, and Dyfyant embodies that philosophy. His willingness to push creative boundaries while remaining true to himself made him a natural fit for this year's lineup.

Earning a tie at one of the THOP Fest Tour's most competitive stops is no small accomplishment. It speaks not only to Dyfyant's talent but also to his commitment to carving his own lane in today's independent music landscape.

Congratulations to Dyfyant on earning a well-deserved place at The Happiness of Pursuit Festival. We can't wait to see what he brings to the stage next. Get familier with him.

THOP Fest 2026 Tour & Artist Competition

THOP FEST TOUR | ANNUAL HIP-HOP ARTIST COMPETITION

THE ROAD TO THE MAIN STAGE: JOIN THE 2026 LINEUP

The Happiness of Pursuit Festival is heading out this spring on a scouting mission to find the best up-and-coming talent in the underground. As one of the premier independent hip-hop festivals in the country, THOP Fest has hosted icons like Mobb Deep, Benny The Butcher, Conway The Machine, Roc Marciano, and Evidence. Now, we’re looking for the next generation of greats to join our alumni.

The Happiness of Pursuit Festival has been hosting these performance competitions since 2019, providing a platform for up-and-coming artists to share the stage with world-renowned talent. This year’s THOP Fest tour will be headlined by festival founder 60 East and festival co-founder Noa James, who both continue to serve as the blueprint for the "working class" independent hip-hop artist.

Whether you are a lyricist, producer, or DJ, this is your chance to showcase your craft and earn your spot in the culture.

2026 Showcase Locations:

• 5/16 Cathedral City, CA | Bart Lounge

• 5/17 Santa Ana, CA | G.C.S

• 5/23 Oxnard, CA | The Mystery Shop

• 6/06 Visalia, CA | First Saturdays

• 6/12 Pinon Hills, CA | The Big Rock Bar

• 6/13 Las Vegas, NV | Taverna Costera

• 6/19 Los Angeles, CA | Slipper Clutch

• 6/21 Rodeo, CA | The Waterfront Rodeo

• 6/27 Inland Empire | Venue TBA

Ready to Join the Lineup?

We aren't just looking for performers; we are looking for the next standout voice in independent music. If you think you have what it takes to win a slot at the main festival this October, we want to see you on the road.

For artists interested in participating in the tour and winning a slot at the festival, you can find all the specific Rules, Prize Packages, and Sign-Up information on our official Tour Page.

Don't wait—slots in each city are limited and fill up fast. We’ll see you on the road.